$1.6m development to build a brighter future for people with a disability

Endeavour Foundation clients and CEO David Barbagallo today turned the first sod to mark the beginning of construction on three contemporary new homes for people with a disability.

The new $1.6 million development at Norman Gardens, Rockhampton, is part of Endeavour Foundation’s self-funded At Home With Choices project to provide modern supported accommodation options with a maximum of four people living in each brand new, state-of-the-art house.

Mr Barbagallo said the three five-bedroom houses would accommodate 12 people with a disability in total. The additional bedrooms will be used for support staff.

“By providing homes with fewer tenants we are able to offer a better lifestyle with greater independence for people with a disability,” said Mr Barbagallo.

“Residents will have greater choice about where they live and who they live with and greater opportunities for independent living skill development, within a supportive environment.”

Mr Barbagallo said the new houses in Norman Gardens would be universally accessible and would be completed with the latest assistive living technology.

“Assistive living technologies such as entry or exit sensors and help alarms can be tailored to suit the needs of any individual living in the house, and promote greater independence for residents within a safe living environment,” he said.

“The people living in these new houses will also be able to enjoy their own private space inside and outside, with a patio adjoining each bedroom.

“Including the land purchase, construction and furnishings, these three houses represent a $1.6 million commitment in the Rockhampton region by Endeavour Foundation.”

Endeavour Foundation has been a part of the Rockhampton community for almost 60 years and provides supported accommodation, respite, in-home support, post-school education, training, and Learning & Lifestyle services to more than 200 people locally.

Fifty-two people with a disability are employed by Endeavour Foundation in the Alma Street Business Services while the Rockhampton Recycled Clothing Store on Richardson Road raises vital funds.

Endeavour Foundation is an independent not-for-profit organisation providing support to people with a disability including accommodation, employment, education, training, vocational and lifestyle opportunities.